dl2p+@andrew.cmu.edu (Douglas Allen Luce) (01/09/90)
I'm interested in publishing some software on a "shareware" basis,
and wanted to conduct some informal research into various methods
and successes of "shareware" products.
I'd like to hear from a couple of different groups:
From users who use and/or support shareware programs. I'd like to
know what you've identified as the various ways a shareware program
is distributed. I've identified some of these modes:
Fullware shareware: These programs are distributed
entirely intact, with an accompanying note saying to
register the software by sending $xxxx to an address.
My favorites include Qmodem and Phil Katz's PKZIP
programs.
Crippleware shareware: Features are removed from these
packages, such as very useful parts of the programs, or
come with a "counter" in them that only lets them be used
a few times. When the program is registered, a new
version (or unlocking code) is sent to the user.
Obnoxoware shareware: Large, obnoxious printouts
containing registration information or other
advertisements are printed before the run of every
program (i.e. Chuck Forsberg's wonderful DSZ program).
These advertisements are removed upon registration.
I'm sure that there are others.
I'd like to know of successes with various types of shareware
products, and the licensing or registration schemes involved.
I'd also like to hear from shareware authors who have agonized (or
not) over selected a method of distribution.
It would seem that the "full" shareware alternative is the easiest
to implement (no mucking about with codes or sending out new
disks), but does it work well enough to entice people to send in
money?
Please send me Email, and I'll complile the various responses and
summarize to the net.
Thanks,
Douglas Luce
Carnegie Mellon
dl2p+@andrew.cmu.edu (internet)
CMCCVB::R746DL2P (bitnet)